Final answer:
In a client with cirrhosis, a nurse should expect to see elevated bilirubin levels, increased prothrombin time, and decreased albumin levels, as these reflect the liver's impaired function in processing and detoxifying substances, as well as synthesizing proteins.
Step-by-step explanation:
A nurse reviewing the laboratory results of a client who has cirrhosis would expect to find certain abnormalities indicative of impaired liver function. Among the expected findings, an elevated bilirubin level is a direct consequence of the liver's reduced ability to process and excrete bilirubin. Because the liver plays a crucial role in the production of blood clotting factors, cirrhosis can lead to prolonged prothrombin time (increased INR) due to impaired synthesis of these proteins. Additionally, cirrhosis can fail to detoxify substances like ammonia, leading to increased ammonia levels in the blood, which can be toxic to the central nervous system.
Furthermore, cirrhosis often results in decreased albumin production, which is critical for maintaining oncotic blood pressure and transporting various substances throughout the body. Therefore, an increased prothrombin time, elevated bilirubin level, and decreased albumin level are laboratory values commonly associated with liver cirrhosis.